A nurse is caring for a client who has diverticular disease. When palpating the client's abdomen, in which of the following locations should the nurse expect the client to report abdominal pain?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Pain in the lower right quadrant is more commonly associated with appendicitis. While diverticula can occur throughout the colon, the sigmoid colon—located in the lower left quadrant—is most frequently affected. Choice B reason: Upper right quadrant pain is typically linked to hepatobiliary conditions such as cholecystitis or hepatitis. It is not characteristic of diverticular disease. Choice C reason: The lower left quadrant is the most common site of pain in diverticular disease, especially when the sigmoid colon is involved. Inflammation or infection of diverticula in this region leads to localized tenderness, cramping, and sometimes fever or changes in bowel habits. Choice D reason: Upper left quadrant pain may be seen in conditions involving the spleen or stomach, such as splenic infarction or gastritis. It is not typical of diverticular disease.